![]() Musical sound is, obviously, one of the most difficult things to describe in words. Vibrato isn’t possible on open strings though, so bear this in mind when you’re using base note open strings (C2 on cello, E1 on double bass etc). On all string instruments, the extreme low register can sound wonderfully rich and throaty. It’s great for repeated notes or tremolo, but your violinist won’t thank you for a lush melody in that range. ![]() Unless there’s a good musical reason to do so, avoid the violin’s stratospheric top notes (above A5). ![]() Your keyboard won’t care, but your real-life musician will. When you’re writing for any instrument via sampled sound, it’s easy to end up impossibly high or impractically low. Having said this, be careful where you put that tune. Limit it to the basic pizzicato bass line and you’ll be wasting an opportunity. It may look like a large piece of furniture, but this instrument has potential melodic beauty. We’ve already mentioned the value of a good cello tune, but don’t forget about the double bass. The viola, which is pitched a fifth lower than the violin, can sound great higher up within the lower violin range, while all 5 instruments are capable of covering the G3-G4 register. You’ll notice that there’s a lot of overlap between instruments. Double bass (notated as cello, but sounds an octave below) – E1-D5.Once you’re aware of the capabilities of each instrument, this is where writing your individual instrumental lines comes into its own. Get Within RangeĮach instrument has its own range, as well as sonic characteristics within that range. In a string arrangement, the simultaneous ringing of open strings can create a gorgeously full and resounding effect. After all, Bach, Mozart and Beethoven knew what they were doing. It’s no coincidence that some of the most famous concertos in the world were written on the open string keys. Viola – C,G,D & A (an octave above the cello).A good rule is to write in keys which match the open string. Generally speaking, string players prefer keys with sharps rather than flats. Strings Recording Session by Supreme Tracks Choose The Right Key Signature You’ll create a much richer, more varied texture if you use solos and combinations. You may only have a small handful of musicians, but this doesn’t mean that each player needs to play in every bar. While the cello is singing, mix things up by giving the bass line to the viola.ĭon’t forget bars rests. Put it on their A string and they’ll probably buy you a beer after the session. Your arrangement will sound dull if the 1 st violin always has the tune, the bass line is the exclusive territory of the cello or double bass and the 2 nd violin and viola continually chug away in the engine room. ![]() It varies the ensemble sound and helps the music breathe and come to life. You give the player a chance to add expression. Rather than writing a series of block chords where everyone changes note at the beginning of the bar, introduce independent melodic movement. Your arrangement will sound less like a string patch and more like a living string ensemble.Įach line should be able to stand alone. Admittedly it’s more work, but it’s worth it. But actually, when it comes to a small ensemble – or indeed any instrumental arrangement – it’s far better to write each part separately. If you’re using MIDI to do your string arrangement, your instinct is probably to take a chordal rather than a melodic approach. Ask the musicians if you’re unsure about any aspect of your string arrangement. Don’t get too dictatorial about the bowing in your arrangement.Ĩ. Steer clear of unison passages for the two violins.ħ. Don’t forget that a small string ensemble can be forcefully percussive as well as lyrically melodic.Ħ. Each line should be able to stand alone.ĥ. ![]() It’s better to write each part separately – your arrangement will sound more like a living string ensemble.Ģ. So, how to write for string quartet? We can’t cover everything here, it is a long study after all, but here are a few very useful tips guaranteed to improve your arrangements.ġ. Expand this to a quintet by adding a double bass, overdub a couple of times and your track has the potential to strike pure gold. A string quartet, however, is within budget. But let’s be pragmatic and start with cost.Ī 24-piece string orchestra would be great, but it’s not always affordable. There are many things to consider when arranging for string quartet or string orchestra. Because when it comes to lyrical expressive power and sheer percussive bite, a string section is one of the greatest musical tools in the box. Learning how to arrange strings and create arrangements for real, living and breathing string players is an art, but it’s a skill worth learning. ![]()
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